As I prepped dinner last weekend, the sun streamed through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow all around. That moment of tranquility was interrupted only by the mouthwatering aroma of honey mingling with Dijon mustard. I couldn’t help but smile as I pulled out my skewers to prepare a dish that never fails to impress: Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs.
In just a few simple steps, these vibrant kabobs transform humble chicken and veggies into a feast of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply as a way to escape the mundane fast-food routine, they boast mouthwatering sweetness paired with a subtle tang. Juicy, marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection make them irresistible, especially when dipped in a creamy honey mustard sauce. If you’re ready to bring excitement back into your kitchen and create something truly special, let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Why Love Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs?
Sweetness and Tang: These kabobs offer a delightful balance of honey’s sweetness and Dijon mustard’s tang, creating a taste sensation that everyone will rave about.
Quick and Easy: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can serve up gourmet flavors without hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for grilling in summer or broiling in winter, these kabobs shine in any season, making them a year-round family favorite.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them at parties or family gatherings, and watch how quickly they vanish—they’re a guaranteed hit!
Dip It! Don’t forget to serve with the creamy honey mustard dip, adding an extra layer of flavor that elevates your meal.
Dive into this fuss-free recipe and enjoy a homemade dish that truly shines!
Honey Mustard Chicken Kabob Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes for tender and juicy bites.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the marinade adhere perfectly.
For the Vegetables
- Red potatoes – Cut into cubes for a hearty, satisfying addition.
- Red onion – Provides a sweet and slightly tangy flavor when grilled.
- Zucchini – Sliced thinly to complement the other veggies and enhance grilling.
For the Marinade
- Honey – Adds that irresistible sweetness for your Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs.
- Dijon mustard – Provides a lovely tang that balances the honey’s sweetness.
- Yellow mustard – A classic ingredient that deepens the overall mustard flavor.
- Orange juice – Adds a citrusy brightness that elevates the marinade.
- Soy sauce – Brings in umami richness to enhance the chicken’s flavor.
- Brown sugar – Complements the honey by boosting that sweet profile.
- Dried parsley – Offers subtle herbal notes and adds visual appeal.
- Paprika – Contributes mild heat and a beautiful color.
- Garlic powder & onion powder – Elevates flavor and aroma with each bite.
- Cayenne pepper – Adds a dash of spice for those who enjoy a little kick.
For the Dip
- Sour cream – Creamy and tangy, it makes the perfect base for your dipping sauce.
- Mayonnaise – Adds richness and silkiness to the honey mustard dip.
Gather these ingredients and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure that promises to delight from the first bite!
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs
-
Whisk Together
In a medium bowl, whisk all marinade ingredients, excluding the olive oil, until well combined. This creates your flavorful “Reserved Marinade” that’ll make your chicken sing! -
Marinate Chicken
Seal 1/4 cup of the Reserved Marinade in a gallon-size bag with the chicken and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Seal it up tight and coat the chicken for a delicious flavor infusion. -
Chill & Flavor
Refrigerate the marinating chicken for 4-6 hours. The longer the marination, the more succulent and flavorful your chicken kabobs will be! -
Prepare the Dip
In a medium bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of your Reserved Marinade with sour cream and mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth, then cover and refrigerate for later use. -
Prep the Potatoes
Microwave the red potatoes in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of water for 4-5 minutes until fork-tender. Drain any excess water, making them ready for seasoning. -
Mix Veggies
In the same bowl, add zucchini, red onion, the remaining Reserved Marinade, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Toss until everything is evenly coated and refrigerate while you prepare the kabobs. -
Assemble Kabobs
After marinating, alternate threading the chicken and veggies onto skewers, creating vibrant and colorful kabobs. -
Grill Kabobs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, rotating occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through. Baste with remaining Reserved Marinade halfway for extra flavor. -
Broil Option
If grilling isn’t an option, line a baking sheet with foil, spray with nonstick spray, and broil kabobs on high for 10-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes and basting each time until fully cooked. -
Serve & Enjoy
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your delectable kabobs with the honey mustard dip and enjoy the beautiful moment of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner even on your busiest nights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply seal the chicken with 1/4 cup of the Reserved Marinade and refrigerate it until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, the vegetables can be prepped separately, tossed with marinade, and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy, assemble the kabobs with the marinated chicken and veggies, then grill or broil as directed. This way, you’ll have flavorful kabobs that are just as delicious without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs
Fridge: Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy these kabobs later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then grill or broil for a few minutes until heated through. Enjoy with your honey mustard dip!
Marinated Chicken: If you have marinated chicken that you won’t use right away, freeze it (without vegetables) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
Honey Mustard Chicken Kabob Variations
Feel free to play around with these kabobs and elevate them to your heart’s content!
-
Pineapple Twist: Add fresh pineapple chunks to the skewers for a juicy, tropical sweetness that complements the honey mustard beautifully. The pineapple caramelizes when grilled, giving that extra flavor punch!
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha in the marinade for a deliciously spicy twist. This adds a kick that balances wonderfully with the honey’s sweetness.
-
Herb-Infused: Swap dried parsley for fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic depth. The fresh herbs will infuse the kabobs with vibrant flavors that make your meal sing!
-
Vegetable Medley: Mix in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color and variety. Each vegetable adds a unique texture and taste, enhancing every bite!
-
Honey Mustard Variation: Use spicy brown mustard instead of Dijon for a more robust taste. The flavor is bolder and adds another layer of complexity to your kabobs.
-
Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, maintaining the umami richness without the gluten.
-
Creamy Avocado Dip: Instead of the honey mustard dip, whip up a creamy avocado dip. Just mash ripe avocados and mix with lime juice and a touch of garlic—it’s a lush alternative!
-
Tender Chicken: For even juicier chicken, brine the chicken breast in a saltwater solution for an hour before marinating. This technique helps retain moisture during cooking, resulting in deliciously tender kabobs!
With these variations, you can create your own special version of these kabobs, crafting a dish that reflects your unique tastes and preferences!
What to Serve with Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs?
Creating a well-rounded meal starts with these vibrant kabobs and extends to delightful sides that enhance the experience.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the juicy kabobs, creating a comforting plate that will warm your heart.
-
Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, grilled asparagus adds a delightful crunch and a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the kabobs.
-
Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad brings a delightful crunch and a zing of acidity that brightens up the whole meal.
-
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn is a summertime classic that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the kabobs, adding a touch of sweetness to each bite.
-
Garlic Bread: Crisp, golden garlic bread delivers an irresistible aroma and buttery taste, making it a fantastic vehicle for scooping up any leftover honey mustard dip.
-
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, pineapple, and melon offers a sweet and juicy contrast to the rich kabobs, cleansing the palate perfectly.
-
Iced Lemonade: This refreshing drink with its tart twist is perfect for pairing; it enhances the kabobs’ flavors while providing a cool respite on a warm day.
Each of these pairings adds its own unique touch, bringing out the best in your Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs and creating a memorable dining experience.
Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs
Marination Matters: Ensure your chicken marinates for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This enhances flavor and tenderness, making your kabobs irresistible.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Just ensure they cook evenly with your chicken for best results.
Basting Boost: Reserve some marinade for basting while grilling or broiling. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the kabobs moist and delicious.
Skewer Safety: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents burning and helps to hold the kabobs together.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is at 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Avoid overcooking to maintain juicy, tender bites.
Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for kabobs?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they stay juicy and tender when grilled. You want to avoid tougher cuts that could dry out during cooking.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your kabobs are safe to eat, use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through while maintaining its tempting juiciness.
How should I store leftover kabobs?
Store your leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, make sure they cool down to room temperature before sealing them in.
Can I freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs?
Yes! To freeze, first arrange the kabobs in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. Then, transfer the kabobs to a freezer bag and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?
You can customize your kabobs with a variety of veggies! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms work wonderfully and add extra flavor. Just ensure the cook time aligns with the chicken for optimal results.
Is there a way to make this dish allergy-friendly?
Certainly! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can replace the sour cream and mayonnaise in the dip with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or avocado for a creamy touch without the dairy.
Sweet & Savory Honey Mustard Chicken Kabobs You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk all marinade ingredients, excluding the olive oil, until well combined.
- Seal 1/4 cup of the Reserved Marinade in a gallon-size bag with the chicken and 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Refrigerate the marinating chicken for 4-6 hours.
- In a medium bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of your Reserved Marinade with sour cream and mayonnaise, then whisk until smooth.
- Microwave the red potatoes in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of water for 4-5 minutes until fork-tender.
- Add zucchini, red onion, the remaining Reserved Marinade, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, then toss to coat.
- After marinating, alternate threading the chicken and veggies onto skewers.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates.
- Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, rotating occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- If grilling isn’t an option, line a baking sheet with foil and broil kabobs on high for 10-15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with the honey mustard dip.